Pro - Does anyone else's nest boxes get soaked in rain?

[Fowler]

Folks: you might remember I asked for some advice when I got a solo white runner duck and it was being bullied (badly) by my orpington hen and (to some extent) by my Mrs Pepperpot . Well, my subsequent silence was because they have settled down and seem very happy together (tho' the hens have a look of patient frustration at Darcey's constant padding around the coop ).

BUT, bless her (or maybe him?) Darcey has not shown a hint of producing an egg...

S/he should be about 12months old now, but not a hint. S/he has water to splash about in, gets the run of the garden 3 or 4 days a week, is a bit skittery, but not "unhappy", quacks a bit, but not excessively. But no eggs.

 

S/he is rather beautiful/handsome. However I'd rather s/he was earning his/her keep a bit more than just as decoration. Any thoughts on reliably sexing a duck? Or might you have other suggestions. My colleagues' suggestion of "duck soup" is not on the agenda!!

 

Fowler

[jayjay]

Hi Fowler

 

I also had some confusion over the he/she duck thing when I first got my pair of lovely girls. I was told that males will have curly tail feathers and won't quack. Mine were about 10 months old when they started laying.

 

JJ

[miller30]

Hi I remember offering your duck a home im glad they get on now a drake sounds a bit raspy and quiet and ducks are quite vocal my runners layed at about 6 months leanne

[Fowler]

Thanks, both.

Tail feathers straight, and quacking (when flustered, anyway!)

Currently happily running around after my hens, and apparently confused as to why they don't always run to hide in the bushes as soon as they are allowed out in the morning.

Sounds like I just have to bide my time and cross my fingers...

Cripes, s/he's messy, though!!

Thanks again.

F

[miller30]

Hi i forgot to say are you sure shes not laying in the bushes or around the garden sometimes mine do and if im not quick enough the crows get them leanne.

[Lewis]

Any photos - maybe we could see if it looks male/female.

 

Hopefully not too long until she starts laying